Django: The Gypsy Legend

When Django Reinhardt was born in 1910, the life he entered was one in which stealing was a means of survival, but also one in which music was a means of celebration. Although the term “gypsy” has taken on romantic implications over the years, the Romany lifestyle was not, and is still not a romantic utopia. Django’s family lived in a caravan and traveled around Europe trying to make by as best they could.The gypsy culture was heavily centered on music; the violin, banjo, accordion, and other musical instruments were easy to transport and playing music in exchange for coins was also a source of financial income. From a very early age, Django was constantly surrounded by music he influence of his gypsy lifestyle, of the European culture, and of the American jazz scene are what made him one of the most important figures in jazz.

In a time in which jazz was not widely accepted, Django and Grappelly formed a wonderful duo that captivated the audience. Jazz was regarded as the devil’s music.Django produced a type of music that touched the hearts of jazz enthusiasts around the world. As Stéphane Grappelly said, “ ‘He did more for the guitar than any other man in jazz. His way of playing was unlike anyone else’s, and jazz is different because of him. There can be many other fine guitarists, but never can there be another Reinhardt. I am sure of that”